Macon-Bibb’s emergency management officials, health partners, and other organizations continue to monitor updates regarding the spread of the COVID-19, the new strain of the coronavirus. There have already been several planning meetings and discussions to determine how each group can best assist in preventing the spread of the disease and better inform the public on what they can do.

According to the North Central Health District (NCHD), there are currently no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the Central Georgia area. Should a case of COVID-19 be confirmed in the area, public health will make sure to provide information to residents of our district.

“We understand that this is a rapidly changing situation, giving opportunity for rumors and misinformation to easily spread throughout our community,” says Michael Hokanson, Public Information Officer with the NCHD. “We continue to ask everyone to look to North Central Health District, the Georgia Department of Public Health, CDC, and the World Health Organization for information on confirmed cases and preventative measures.”

The primary things that can be done now are preventative measures, including:

Wash hands with soap and water thoroughly, regularly, and frequently, especially after coughing or sneezing, using the bathroom, handling food, or any time you are near a sink.

Stay home if you are feeling sick. If you have a fever, cough, and difficulty breathing, consult your primary medical provider.

The coronavirus is spread in ways similar to other viruses like the flu, including coughing; sneezing; close personal contact (shaking hands, touching, etc.); and touching contaminated surfaces and then your eyes, nose, or mouth. Symptoms of the coronavirus are similar to a variety of illnesses (fever, cough, shortness of breath) and may appear two to 14 days after exposure to the virus.